Cristiano Ronaldo made history at the 2026 World Cup by becoming the second-oldest goalscorer in tournament history at 41 years and 138 days, but he still trails Cameroon legend Roger Milla. Milla first gained worldwide recognition at Italia ’90, leading the Indomitable Lions to the quarterfinals—the first African team to reach that stage. Four years later, he scored against Russia at USA 94 at 42 years and 39 days—a record that has stood for over three decades. Lionel Messi, meanwhile, slipped to fourth on the all-time list after scoring against Austria just before turning 39. Unless Ronaldo or Messi extends their international careers to the 2030 tournament, Milla’s remarkable achievement could remain unmatched.
BBC